Residents to get their say on rehab facility

Open forums will be held in Brunswick within weeks to give residents an opportunity to ask questions about a proposed residential drug rehabilitation facility at the former Sophia College site in town.

Harvey Shire Council unanimously adopted that the facility, proposed by Palmerston Association, be considered as “Hospital Special Use – Residential Rehabilitation Facility” consistent with the zoning as “Special Use – Other Community”.

Palmerston Association chief executive officer Sheila McHale and residential services manager Wendy Shannon addressed the council last Tuesday night and fielded questions from councillors.

Ms McHale said the association had worked with communities for almost 40 years and she wanted to assure the Brunswick community that they would not do anything to diminish the proud and strong reputation which the town had in common with Palmerston.

“We are responding to a need, we strive for excellence and I believe we can offer a service of high standard,” she said.

“Concerns and fears from Brunswick residents are understandable but we have very stringent assessments in place.

“Our residents are not using drugs or alcohol and are not admitted while still in the withdrawal phase.

“We regularly conduct breath and urine analyses and if residents break the rules they will most likely be discharged.

“The therapeutic facility also has the capacity to contribute to the town’s economy as we will buy locally and want to be part of the community.”

Ms Shannon said antisocial behaviour by residents was “extremely rare”.